Small Cars, Big Fun - 2011 Detroit Auto Show

At the Detroit Auto Show, compact is in, but they're more refined than ever.

For years, the Honda Civic has been the benchmark in the small car market here in the U.S. So when a new version makes its debut, you can bet that car buyers aren't the only ones who'll be paying lots of attention at Honda's show-stand. While not drastically different from the current model, the 2012 Honda Civic coupe and sedan will be better-looking and more economical. While still technically labeled a concept car, the Civic you see in Detroit is pretty much the car you'll find on dealership lots when the new Civic goes on sale in the spring. Our one hope is that Honda returns to its performance roots by offering a sport-tuned version.

2012 Buick Verano:

The Buick brand could continue its recent sales surge with the addition of the handsome new 2012 Buick Verano to its lineup. Based on the same platform as the Chevrolet Cruze, the Verano comes in roughly one size smaller than the new (and highly regarded) Buick Regal sedan. The Verano also comes loaded with luxury touches, like leather seating, premium sound system, and optional heated steering wheel. A 177-bhp direct-injected 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine is standard, and comes mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Buick says the front-wheel-drive Verano should reach 60 mph in 8.0 seconds, and average 31 mpg on the highway.

2012 Chevrolet Sonic:

The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic sedan and hatchback represent a quantum leap forward from Chevy's previous small cars. Remember the Aveo? Chevrolet is probably hoping you don't, since it combined forgettable styling and as much driving excitement as a shopping cart. The Sonic looks great thanks to its chunky fenders, bold front fascia and nose-down stance. Expect a choice of frugal 4-cylinder engines under the stubby hood of the Sonic—a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter and turbocharged 1.4-liter (found in the Cruze sedan) are the most likely candidates. The latter engine could serve up some peppy performance, especially if Chevy offers a performance-oriented Sonic RS model.

2011 Jeep Compass:

If you like the look of the latest Grand Cherokee but prefer the economy of something smaller, the new 2011 Jeep Compass could be your ideal crossover SUV. Looking like a scaled down version of the strong-selling Grand Cherokee, the new Compass is available with a choice of two 4-cylinder engines and front- or all-wheel drive. While the previous model never really hit its target market, we expect the new Compass could finally strike a balance between the tough looks of an SUV and the economy of a something that doesn't necessarily need stump-pulling power.

2012 Ford Focus Electric:

The Ford Focus Electric is ready to take the eco-themed fight to electric-powered cars, like the Nissan Leaf, and hybrids such as the Toyota Prius. Ford says the range of the Focus Electric should be around 100 miles, with 6 to 8 hours needed for a recharge when using a 240V plug and outlet. Lithium-ion batteries (like those found in cell phones and laptops) provide the power for the Focus Electric's 123-hp electric motor. The top speed is only 84 mph, though we doubt this will be a deal-breaker for buyers intrigued by the idea of driving a car with zero emissions. Look for the Focus Electric to go on sale late in 2011.

2012 Hyundai Veloster:

The 2012 Hyundai Veloster offers a unique twist on the traditional coupe format. While there is a single door located on the driver's side, two passenger doors on the opposite side make this...a 3-door coupe? The Veloster also features a split-glass rear hatchback. Whatever you want to call it, the Veloster has the slick style and frugal manners that economy car buyers now demand. A direct-injection 4-cylinder engine, mated to either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, means 40 mpg during highway driving, says Hyundai). The Veloster goes on sale later this year, as a 2012 model.

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